A little late to this thread by my question/comment is hopefully on theme:
Hello, I'm another Londoner looking North (sorry!) and would be so appreciative of guidance: we are looking very seriously at Hitchin (also Baldock but for families, if we are able to have one, Hitchin seems to be preferable). We've found a great place in Hitchin after lots of hunting that we are/were so close to putting an offer in on. It's on Woolgrove Road almost opposite St Faiths church. However, I'm now so worried because 'official' online published crime stats suggest that that area is a bit of a "hotspot" for crime - including or in particular the public carpark near the church which would be our main/sole carpark. Is this irrational? Can others that live there or in Hitchin generally put me at ease? Or am I onto something and best avoided? I know nowhere is perfect, things happen, but if those stats are to go by, this is an area that jumps out as more problematic (frankly) than others. Any thoughts gratefully received! Thank you so much in advance.